Buikema’s Ace Hardware chain to change hands

After nearly 70 years and three generations, Buikema’s Ace Hardware will be handing over the reins to new leadership.

Westlake Ace Hardware announced Thursday that it will acquire Buikema’s Ace Hardware. The purchase is expected to be completed by early January of next year.

Buikema’s Ace Hardware is a family-owned chain that operates seven stores in the Chicago area. Jessie and Clarence Buikema opened the first store, Naperville Ace Hardware, in 1948. Three locations are in Naperville, with two in Wheaton, one in Plainfield and one in Romeoville.

“Through three generations, my family has built Buikema’s Ace Hardware into what it is today – a vital business partner in the communities we serve,” Buikema’s Ace Hardware president Kyle Buikema said in a news release.

Buikema went on to say that the acquisition by Westlake “at this point in our history makes a lot of sense, as their excellent reputation, shared values, and focus on continuity will help Buikema’s Ace continue to prosper well into the future.”

Westlake Ace Hardware is the largest member of the Ace Hardware Cooperative, operating more than 108 stores throughout Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Texas and New Mexico.